The report says that head coach Dick Advocaat hopes he can return for this weekend's clash against Crystal Palace, especially after losing Sebastian Larsson for two games, as he picked up his 10th booking of the season during the derby day win.

Given the seven games remaining, Advocaat will want all of his resources at his disposal, and Rodwell is expected to return from the hamstring problem he picked up in the 1-0 defeat to West Ham United prior to the international break fairly swiftly.

It would be a welcome boost for Sunderland, given the absence of Larsson and the three man midfield that Advocaat has adopted during his two games in charge of the Black Cats.

The win was a boost for Sunderland at the weekend but Rodwell could have a key part to play over the final seven games as they are still only just three points above the relegation zone.

There's a tough end to the season for Advocaat's men as they are in line to take on the Premier League's current top two, so getting positive results from their meeting with an upbeat Palace side at the Stadium of Light, and the following week's trip to the Britannia Stadium to take on Stoke City could prove to be pivotal to their status.

Ian Bolland

A journalism graduate of Liverpool John Moores University. During his time at university, Ian spent time on work experience at local newspapers in Liverpool, Bolton and Wigan, and prior to that he did work for The Observer's 'fans verdict'. Ian also has interests in news, current affairs and business but mostly sport, including football, rugby league, cricket, golf and Formula 1, amongst others.